### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **blásphēmos**, represented by `{{G989}}`, defines what is scurrilous, calumnious against men, or impious against God. It appears 5 times in 5 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning encompasses the act of being a **blasphemer** or making a **railing** accusation, highlighting a severe form of disrespectful and harmful speech.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G989}}` denotes both direct impiety and slanderous accusations. In the case of Stephen, he was falsely accused of speaking **blasphemous** words against Moses and God [[Acts 6:11]]. The Apostle Paul describes his own past life as that of a **blasphemer**, a persecutor, and an injurious person, before he obtained mercy [[1 Timothy 1:13]]. The term is also used in a list describing the character of ungodly people, who will be **blasphemers** and proud [[2 Timothy 3:2]]. Finally, it characterizes a **railing** accusation, which even powerful angels do not bring against others before the Lord [[2 Peter 2:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and nature of blasphemy:
* `{{G5197}}` **hybristḗs** (injurious): This word, meaning "an insulter, i.e. maltreater," appears alongside `{{G989}}` to describe a character marked by harmful and abusive behavior [[1 Timothy 1:13]].
* `{{G5244}}` **hyperḗphanos** (proud): Defined as "haughty," this term is listed with **blasphemers** to show that such speech often stems from a position of pride [[2 Timothy 3:2]].
* `{{G2980}}` **laléō** (to talk, i.e. utter words): This verb is used for the act of speaking **blasphemous** words, linking the internal sin to an external, verbal action [[Acts 6:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G989}}` is significant, highlighting a specific type of grievous sin.
* **An Indicator of a Corrupt Heart:** Being a **blasphemer** is listed among a series of severe moral failings that will characterize people, alongside traits like being covetous, proud, and disobedient [[2 Timothy 3:2]].
* **An Offense Against Divine and Human Authority:** The accusations against Stephen show that **blasphemous** words can be directed against both God and his appointed servants, such as Moses [[Acts 6:11]]. The use of `{{G989}}` as "railing" demonstrates it also applies to slanderous accusations between beings [[2 Peter 2:11]].
* **A Sin Forgiven Through Mercy:** Paul's self-identification as a former **blasphemer** is immediately followed by his testimony of receiving mercy. This positions blasphemy as a profound sin, yet one that can be forgiven when done in ignorance and unbelief [[1 Timothy 1:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G989}}` identifies more than just a single act; it describes a character trait rooted in pride and impiety. It refers to scurrilous speech that can be directed against both God and other people. While scripture presents it as a serious sin symptomatic of a corrupt nature [[2 Timothy 3:2]], it also presents it as a forgivable offense, as exemplified in the testimony of Paul [[1 Timothy 1:13]].
TRV